Cash splashed for high maintenance schools’ upkeep

BENDIGO Senior Secondary College has been allocated $531,217 for the next stage of its planned upgrade and modernisation works, and Quarry Hill Primary $425,821.97 from the latest round of the State Government’s ongoing schools Planned Maintenance Program.

The $35.077 million PMP pool, which will also be shared among 53 other schools across Victoria, will go towards a series of practical measures including upgrading emergency shelters, replacing windows, painting and resurfacing floors.

According to the State Government, the raft of works will create high-quality spaces and better teaching and learning experiences for students, teachers and staff.

The latest funding falls under the umbrella of the Bendigo Education Plan, which was established in 2005 to re-energise secondary education in the region and extended in 2018.

It’s designed to connect schools, other education providers, local government and local business to “create high-quality education pathways for the Bendigo community from birth through to higher education, training and employment”.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll said his government has opened 121 brand-new public schools since being elected, and is aiming to ensure existing schools are in the best shape for students.

“Practical improvements like a fresh coat of paint or upgrading emergency shelters mean Victorian students can learn in modern schools with up-to-date facilities,” he said.

Leongatha Secondary College also received a boost of over $2.5 million and Monbulk College over $1 million.

For a complete list of schools that will be receiving funding, visit the Victorian School Building Authority website.